The USA is one of the most popular places to travel to in the world whether you’re looking for a road trip through California, a city break in the bustling New York City, a ski trip in Colorado or want to lie by the beach in Florida there are so many epic destinations to explore.
The country is also home to so many cool hostels to stay at meaning there is no need to splash out on a fancy hotel. From deluxe private rooms to sociable dorms they are such a versatile place to stay. In this article, we have broken down 17 of the best hostels across the entire country where we cover top destinations, from New Orleans, Miami, and San Diego to lesser-known backpacking spots like Seattle and Denver.
We even cover Alaska, Puerto Rico, and Hawaii in this article so if any of those awesome destinations are on your travel bucket list you can have a scroll below.
So let’s get straight into it here is 17 of the coolest hostels in the United States of America!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in The USA
#1 Overall Best Hostel in the USA – Viajero Miami
#2 Best Hostel in Miami – Freehand Miami
#3 Best Hostel in New Orleans – Auberge NOLA Hostel
#4 Best Hostel in NYC – HI NYC City
#5 Best Hostel in San Diego – Samesun Ocean Beach
#6 Best Hostel in Honolulu – Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki
#7 Best Hostel in Chicago – Freehand Chicago
#1 – Viajero Miami
Overall Best Hostel in the USA
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 1120 Collins Avenue, Miami
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Viajero Miami…
Viajero Miami is one of the best hostels we’ve ever seen and provides the ultimate hostel package which makes it our top pick for the overall best hostel in the USA. Firstly, the facilities at Viajero Miami are incredible and can sometimes leave you wondering if you’re staying in a lavish hotel and not a backpackers hostel.
Across the property, Viajero Miami is equipped with super modern facilities including a sleek bar, deluxe dorms, and private rooms along with sociable common areas which are perfect for meeting other backpackers. There is an ongoing tropical chic theme throughout the hostel which adds to its social ambiance with it being full of color and life with vibrant paintings and designs everywhere you look.
Viajero Miami is perfect for…
Viajero Miami is a pretty cool place to stay for pretty much all backpackers and particularly those who like a little more luxury when staying at a hostel. Starting with the stunning outdoor pool which stretches across the entire outdoor patio and glistens in the baking Miami Sun.
There are also several seating areas around the pool including lounger chairs and sofa beds to mingle, relax and have a few cocktails in the sun. You will also find an epic co-working space at the hostel for those of you working online or just have a few admin or booking stuff you need to sort out.
Looking for the Party? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best party hostels in USA!
#2 – Freehand Miami
Best Hostel in Miami
- Cost – $$
- Location – 2727 Indian Creek Dr, Miami Beach
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Freehand Miami…
The facilities provided at Freehand Miami are out of this world! Starting with the rooms themselves guests have the option between sociable dorms or deluxe privates all of which are equipped with super comfortable beds, air conditioning and beautifully modern en-suite bathrooms.
Moving on to the commons areas you will find a stunning tropical garden, a relaxing pool area, a cozy lounge along with the on-site Broken Shaken Bar which is meant to be the hub for socializing at the hostel!
Freehand Miami is perfect for…
If you want guaranteed sunny weather matched with beautiful facilities at reasonable prices then this is the hostel for you. Freehand Miami is situated in the heart of Miami Beach and has 2 beautiful outdoor pools, a lively bar area, and a tasty restaurant which can sometimes leave you not wanting to leave the hostel.
However, if you do decide to venture out you will find so many things to do nearby with a white sandy beach being just a block away, the bustling nightlife region of South Beach within a mile of the property along with plenty of cultural sites scattered around the neighborhood.
Miami is alive! And you’ll find these party hostels have some of the best events around!
#3 – Auberge NOLA Hostel
Best Hostel in New Orleans
- Cost – $$
- Location – 1628 Carondelet St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Auberge Nola Hostel…
Auberge Nola Hostel has won so many awards for being an amazing hostel over the years and we can see why fantastic on-site facilites, reasonable prices and awesome social events many of which happen to be free.
We also love the location of Auberge Nola Hostel with it being perfectly nestled between two of the city’s most sought after neighbourhoods: the stunning Garden District and the vibrant French Quarter. This means guests staying at Auberge Nola Hostel can enjoy both laid back and vibrant spots depending on what they want out of their vacation to New Orleans.
Auberge Nola Hostel is perfect for…
Auberge Nola Hostel is perfect for those traveling solo or perhaps want to party in New Orleans. Every night there is something happening at the hostel including beer pong tournaments, themed party nights, and plenty of drinking games. If you fancy slightly more chill activities then there are also family BBQ nights, walking tours around the city along with organised days out to some of New Orleans top sites.
Don’t worry! We have more hostels in our article on the best party hostels in New Orleans!
#4 – HI NYC Hostel
Best Hostel in NYC
- Cost – $$
- Location – 891 Amsterdam Avenue, NY 10025-4403
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like HI NYC Hostel…
HI NYC has some fantastic and modern amenities including two floors of common room space for lounging and socializing, an in-house theatre along with a games room. Arguably the best part of this hostel is its outdoor terrace which is actually the largest outdoor patio in Manhattan! Here people gather from all over the neighborhood to socialize with a few beers whilst listening to the bustling sounds of the city.
HI NYC Hostel is perfect for…
Those wanting to explore the big apple but are on a reasonably tight budget and don’t want to fork out on a super-expensive hotel! The hostel is located in an amazing location and you will find it hard to find a place to stay near the center of the city at such cheap prices.
HI NYC Hostel lies on Amsterdam Avenue and is just a few minutes walk away from two metro stations which will connect you to some of the city’s top sites including Lincoln Centre, Times Square, Penn Station, Brooklyn, and Soho.
Editor’s Recommendation! These are the staff pick for the top hostels in New York City (for all budgets!)
#5 – Samesun Ocean Beach
Best Hostel in San Diego
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 4961 Newport Avenue, San Diego
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Samesun Ocean Beach…
Samesun Ocean Beach Hostel perfectly resembles what its like to live a laid-back beachfront lifestyle in San Diego and has immaculate vibes beaming with a friendly and social atmosphere. The hostel has an open-air concept to it with many of its social spaces being outside so you can soak up the beaming southern Californian sun.
The facilities at the hostel are also epic with modern and comfortable seating areas scattered across the property along with deluxe privates and social dorm rooms.
Samesun Ocean Beach is perfect for…
Those who want to live the idyllic Californian beach lifestyle with the hostel being just a 2 minute walk away from the shores of the Pacific Ocean. The hostel is located in the sought-after Ocean Beach: here you can surf, skate, walk, run, bike, be a yogi, or just chill out. Samesun Ocean Beach also offers extremely discounted surfboard and bike rental for those who want to embrace their adventurous side in San Diego.
California is amazing! And the best hostels in San Diego will blow you away!
#6 – Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki
Best Hostel in Honolulu
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 2584 Lemon Road, Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki…
The variety of common spaces and beautifully deluxe room options are some of the best things about Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki! On-site you will find a large and fully-equipped kitchen area where you can cook yourself a tasty meal which can then be enjoyed in the beautiful outdoor social and eating area. Along with this, there are super cheap surf rental options at the hostel along with free access to beach toys!
Polynesian Hotel Beach Club Waikiki is perfect for…
If you want to be situated in the heart of one of Honolulu’s most sought-after neighborhoods on a shoestring budget then this is the place to stay. The hostel is only steps away from the world-famous Waikiki Beach where you will find a bustling atmosphere along with beautiful blue waters.
You will also find an abundance of restaurants and bars near the property along with the famous Diamond Head Crater. The hostel is also just a short taxi journey away from International Airport if you’re looking to explore some of the other islands Hawaii has to offer.
Need more specifics? Here are the best neighborhoods in Honolulu to stay!
#7 – Freehand Chicago
Best Hostel in Chicago
- Cost – $$
- Location – 19 E Ohio Street, Chicago
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Freehand Chicago…
We love the vibrant atmosphere and unique hostel experience you get at Freehand Chicago. The hostel has an epic design to it with it being situated inside a classic 1927 building that has been revamped but still keeps its traditional feel to it.
On-site you will find a variety of cool social spaces that somewhat make you feel as if you’re in an updated movie from the early 90s. The beautiful decor isn’t just in the common areas but also spans to the rooms which are innovatively designed and there are plenty to choose from including deluxe privates and budget-friendly dorms.
Freehand Chicago is perfect for…
Those who want the fantastic and unique facilities we have listed above but also to be situated in an epic location. Freehand Chicago is situated in the vibrant River North neighborhood which is located just moments from the famous Michigan Avenue. Here you will find a bustling atmosphere along with plenty of things to do including beautiful art galleries, hip cafes, and tasty restaurants.
Haven’t Booked for Chicago? Read up on our favorite hostels in Chicago (for any budget)!
#8 – Green Tortoise Hostel
The Best Hostel in San Fransisco
- Cost – $$
- Location – 494 Broadway, San Fransisco
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like the Green Tortoise Hostel…
In the heart of San Fransisco, The Green Tortoise Hostel is an amazing place to base yourself for exploring the city’s top sites with it just being a stroll away from some of the coolest neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Here you will find an abundance of restaurants and bars all serving up unique cuisines and drink options and many of which are open till late for those who want to let their hair down in the city.
Green Tortoise Hostel is perfect for…
If you want a budget-friendly place to stay with a great location for an awesome city break in San Fransisco then this is arguably the best place to find it. The Green Tortoise Hostel has amazing on-site facilities and loads of free add-ons.
Some of its spectacular amenities include a sauna area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and an epic common room with pool and ping pong tables. As for its complimentary add-ons you can expect free luggage storage and high-speed wifi along with a free gourmet breakfast of bagels, fresh fruit, oatmeal, and a selection of hot beverages every morning.
Before your trip, find out about San Fransisco’s best hostels!
#9 – Sin City Hostel
Best Hostel in Las Vegas
- Cost – $$
- Location – 1208 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Sin City Hostel…
For such a popular tourist destination Las Vegas surprisingly doesn’t have that many good hostels to choose from. However the ones it does have are pretty good and this includes the bustling and vibrant Sin City Hostel.
We love the weekly events Sin City Hostel hosts which are perfect for socializing and meeting other guests this includes pasta & wine nights, club crawls, Backyard BBQs, game nights, First Friday Art Festival outings and so much more. Sounds pretty epic right?!
Sin City Hostel is perfect for…
If you want to stay near that iconic Las Vegas strip but want a good night’s sleep at the end of the day then this is the place to stay. Sin City Hostel is just minutes away from the iconic landmark street which means you can take your post-card-worthy snapshots within no time.
However, it is also far enough away that you can avoid the crazy atmosphere if you want a quiet night in. At the hostel, you are also just a few minutes from The Main Street Arts & Beer district which is known for being the best place to find local restaurants, bars, and coffee shops.
Like good weather? These are the best times to visit Las Vegas!
#10 – Ember Hostel
Best Hostel in Denver
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 857 N Grant Street, Denver, Colorado
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Ember Hostel…
We love the added touches and complimentary add-ons at Ember Hostel along with its prime location. Firstly, it has bunks that are awesomely equipped with blackout curtains, outlets, personal lights, and ample storage.
Next up you have its complimentary services which include coffee & tea, super fast wifi, and luggage storage. Finally, you have its amazing location in Cap Hill just a short walk from the state capitol where you will find chic downtown bars, and a bustling music scene.
Ember Hostel is perfect for…
Ember Hostel is definitely one to check out for our flash-packer readers. A hostel that is designed with boutique comfort guests should get ready to kick back and relax and enjoy the swankiest retro hostel experience of a lifetime at Ember Hostel. The hostel is situated in a 9,000-square-foot historic mansion and is equipped with lavish yet traditional amenities.
Expect the rooms to be equipped with train car style beds and plush king-size pillows as for the common spaces you will be dazzled by the architecture with grand rooms beaming with life. You will also find a bubbling Jacuzzi spa on-site along with a roaring outdoor fire bit on a sociable outdoor patio.
Have an early flight? Book a hostel near Denver AIRPORT to have a stress-free morning!
#11 – Sven’s Basecamp Hostel
Best Hostel in Alaska
- Cost – $$
- Location – 3505 Davis Road, Fairbanks, Alaska
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Sven’s Basecamp Hostel…
The accommodation options at Sven’s Basecamp hostel make it a super exciting and unique hostel experience for those heading to Fairbanks in Alaska. Guests have the choice of dorm rooms, private cabins, treehouses, shared wall tent cabins, and a campground amongst the trees to lay their heads for the night.
Not only does it have epic room options but its social areas are amazing too including beautiful gardens, volleyball fields, roasting fire pits, and outdoor patios.
Sven’s Basecamp Hostel is perfect for…
Situated in The Land of the Midnight Sun, this hostel is perfect for our adventure lover readers who love being in the great outdoors. Nicknamed the ‘Green Oasis in the Middle of Town’, Sven’s Basecamp Hostel provides the perfect combination of feeling like you are amongst nature with plenty of greenery surrounding the hostel but also is close enough to the downtown region of the city of Fairbanks to enjoy cute cafes and restaurants.
Editor’s Tip: make friends by staying at a cool hostel in Los Angeles!
#12 – Firehouse Hostel
Best Hostel in Austin
- Cost – $$
- Location – 605 Brazos Street
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Firehouse Hostel…
The attached Firehouse Lounge Bar at this hostel is absolutely epic and an awesome place to meet like-minded backpackers along with locals. Here you can expect to spend your night sipping on handcrafted cocktails or locally brewed beers all of which are very reasonably priced especially for Austin.
At the bar, you can also expect a plethora of live music events where local artists from across the city come to perform which creates a lively ambiance. Not only is Firehouse Hostel home to the Firehouse Lounger bar but it also has a secret speakeasy cocktail bar which is situated inside a hidden bookshelf in the lobby. The staff even make you try and find the entrance yourself so get your detective skills on.
Firehouse Hostel is perfect for…
If you want an unbeatable location at a steal of a price then this is your best option if you’re heading to the bustling city of Austin. The hostel is close to all the sightseeing spots and attractions along with this you will find bustling bars, epic live music venues, and crazy nightclubs all within a short walking distance of the hostel.
MUST READ! We’ve organized the best places to stay in Austin for all types of trips!
#13 – Generator Washington DC
Best Hostel in Washington DC
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 1900 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington DC
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Generator Washington DC…
Next up we have the famous hostel chain of Generator which always seem to make our lists of the best hostels in a city and there is a reason why and its Washington DC branch perfectly summarises this. The hostel provides stylish and affordable accommodation in a sought-after location with it being in the heart of the thriving Dupont Circle neighborhood.
It also has excellent services including huge luggage storage and a front desk that is open 24 hours a day. The team at the hostel are also super friendly and there are plenty of social spaces where you can meet other backpackers making it great for solo travelers.
Generator Washington DC is perfect for…
If you want a sense of luxury when staying in the plush city of Washington DC but still want the social atmosphere of a hostel then Generator Hostel is an awesome option. With nearly 150 room options you’ll have plenty to choose from all of which are equipped with super modern and lavish facilities.
Whether you’re looking for beautiful king rooms and suites or want a huge dorm room with the cheapest bed prices available there is a little something for everyone at Generator Washington DC.
Recommended Article: Looking for the best hostels in Washington DC? Check out our EPIC Guide!
#14 – Apple Hostels of Philadelphia
Best Hostel in Philadelphia
- Cost – $$
- Location – 32 Bank Street, Philadelphia
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Apple Hostels of Philadelphia…
You get the best of both worlds when staying at Apples Hostels of Philadelphia with it being situated on a quiet and safe street but in the heart of the bustling Old City. Here you are within walking distance to top sites including the Independence National Historical Park which is just around the corner along with the Pennsylvania Convention Centre being a mile away.
Along with its fantastic location, we also love the common areas at this hostel! This includes a billiards table, a comfortable lounge area, and a fully-equipped kitchen.
Apple Hostels of Philadelphia is perfect for…
This one is for those who love the complimentary add-ons you receive with your room rate. Pretty might every night of the week the hostel provides a free and epic activity or service. This includes a free pasta dinner every Wednesday, a free open bar and a pub crawl every Thursday. There’s also a free wine and cheese social every Saturday along with a complimentary free beer every Friday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. Oh and there is also free tea and coffee 24 hours a day to keep yourself awake for all these epic activities.
Will you also visit Philadelphia? Check out where we like to stay in Philadelphia!
#15 – Backpackers Hostel & Pub
Best Hostel in Boston
- Cost – $$
- Location – 13 School Street Everett, Boston
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Backpackers Hostel & Pub…
The hostel has a super fun and social atmosphere which is always great when you first arrive at the hostel. The team of staff are renowned for being some of the friendliest in the city and are more than happy to help you out with anything you may want to know about the city.
There is also an abundance of sociable common areas to enjoy and even a pool table room which is meant to be the hub for backpackers to get to know each other and mingle.
Backpackers Hostel & Pub is perfect for…
Beer lovers will fall in love with this hostel with not only it having an on-site bar that serves up an incredible and tasty selection of local beers but it is also just a 10-minute walk to the famous Boston Craft Beer District.
Here you can test out local beers from a variety of companies including Beer Moose Company and Bone Up Brewing along with trying some food from local trucks and even get to see live music acts on the weekend.
Need to save money? Check out the cheapest hostels in Boston!
#16 – Mango Mansion
Best Hostel in Puerto Rico
- Cost – $$
- Location – 159 Primavera Science, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Mango Mansion Hostel…
Mango Mansion Hostel has the perfect location to explore San Juan and the island of Puerto Rico with it being primely between the two gorgeous beaches of Ocean Park and Condado Beach. It is also situated near some of the best nightlife spots in San Juan including La Placita Santurce where you will find an awesome selection of local bars and clubs.
Along with this, you will find plenty of great public transport options nearby the property which gives you easy access to the International Airport along with other hotspots around the paradise island.
Mango Mansion Hostel is perfect for…
Partygoers who want a sense of luxury when heading to San Juan in Puerto Rico! Mango Mansion is an upmarket hostel with lavish facilities but also provides an incredibly cool party atmosphere. There are plenty of social spaces to hang out including a lively patio garden area which is dubbed the perfect place for pre-drinks. You will also find the hostel is equipped with luxury bunks with deluxe memory foam mattresses, personal power outlets, and air conditioning.
To shrug off that hangover you will be happy to know that Mango Mansion offers an incredible free breakfast which includes their famous waffles, toast, eggs, fresh fruit, coffee, and tea. This means you can fuel up for a day of exploring and forget about that pain you may feel in your head.
Not finding the right hostel? Puerto Rico has a selection of party hostels too!
#17 – Green Tortoise Seattle Hostel
Best Hostel in Seattle
- Cost – $$
- Location – 105 1/2 Pike Street, Seattle
- Reviews → Check on Hostelworld
Why we like Green Tortoise Seattle Hostel…
The final hostel on our list is the Green Tortoise Seattle Hostel and it certainly won’t disappoint. The hostel is beautifully designed and is situated in an elegantly restored Elliot Hotel Building and now is home to 30 remodelled bunk rooms.
Despite keeping a traditional and authentic feel to it the hostel also has plenty of modern charms too, including semi-private Mediterranean-style tile bathrooms, a sparkling kitchen along with a large common area equipped with sleek furniture.
Green Tortoise Seattle Hostel is perfect for…
You need to take full advantage of the hostel’s epic events and free add-ons available. Firstly, the events each week; you will find family-style dinners, walking tours along with vibrant pub crawls that take you to some of the city’s best drinking holes. There is also a free make-your-own breakfast every morning at Green Tortoise Seattle hostel which serves up a tasty storm of oatmeal, eggs, fruit, juice, coffee, tea, & hot cocoa.
Recommended Article: Looking for the best hostels in Seattle? Check out our EPIC Guide!
Central America is alive! And you’ll find these party hostels have some of the best events around!
Conclusion to the Best Hostels in the USA
Well there you have it that’s our guide to the best hostels in the entirety of the United States. In this article, we have found beautiful hostels all over the country from in the heart of the outdoors in Alaska, to central hostels in tourist favorite cities New York and San Fransisco along with laid-back beachfront properties in Miami and San Diego.
Hostels in the USA can really be hit or miss that’s why it’s super important you pick the right ones. Along with this, there are SO many out there which can leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed. This being said due to the vast variety available it has meant we have only selected the very best and we really hope you find somewhere on our list that catches your eye. If you do end up booking any of our recommendations do let us know in the comments below we love hearing from you guys.
So what are you waiting for? Get booking! Your dream hostel is only a click away and so many of them offer free cancelation room options so you don’t have to worry about losing out.
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